The Scent of the Summer Is...Tomatoes?!

Flamingo Estate’s Roma Heirloom Tomato candle received high praise from several editors. As Lifestyle Editor Sydney Meister told me, “I know, this one is a splurge (but trust me when I say it’s worth it). The scent hits like you’ve just brushed past a sun-warmed tomato vine in a garden that’s been freshly watered. There’s a peppery bite, a green snap of radish or pea pod and this unbelievably realistic burst of sweet soil and herbaceous leaf that makes you question if someone secretly planted raised beds in your bedroom. It’s savory in a way that feels elevated and grounding, and the throw is ultra-strong without being cloying. Even when it’s not lit, the scent lingers in the best way. (Not to mention that it offers up to 60 hours of burn time.) I keep at least two on hand at all times—because once you smell it, there’s no going back.”

As mentioned, B&BW just launched their Off The Vine collection and I’ve been all of it, especially their perfume. The brand says it’s supposed to smell like a “bright, earthy herb garden ripe for picking” and it truly shows with just one spray on my skin. It has notes of garden geranium, Mediterranean moss, and of course, heirloom tomato. It’s just so fresh and unlike the fragrances I usually gravitate towards. Plus, the bottle is gorgeous—reminiscent of the fruit and an overall great addition to my vanity. 

Loewe was truly ahead of the game when they launched their own tomato-inspired collection back in 2023. The Tomato Leaves candle became a symbol of the Tomato Girl phenomenon, with its unique jar design and distinct scent. Also featuring fir balsam, oak moss and blackcurrant, the fresh aroma is worth the splurge. 

OK, this one might not be everyone’s cup of tea. But if you like the delicious scent of pizza, Snif has you covered. It has key notes of black currant, basil, tomato sauce, accord, iris, crust accord and sandalwood. If you’re still not convinced, one reviewer wants you to definitely give it a chance. “I get so many compliments on this scent. Not sure how to explain it but it’s just yummy!,” they wrote. 

This royal-approved brand has a candle that evokes “afternoon sun in the greenhouse.” The tomato comes through into a rich earthy fragrance that has a burn time of 70 hours. As one shopper shares, “I light this candle late afternoon or early evening. When the sun filters through the trees the scent creates a garden-like atmosphere. The scent fills the room beautifully without being overpowering. [I] highly recommend it for anyone who enjoys bringing the essence of a sunny garden indoors.” 

The name gives it away, so expect this fragrance to be earthy and fresh just like your local garden. It has notes of tomato leaf accord, green mandarin essence and patchouli heart that works for any season. “From the Garden literally smells like you just brushed past tomato vines in the sun. [It’s] green, earthy and so clean in the best way. It’s not your typical floral or fruity fragrance, which makes it feel super unique and elevated. I’ve been wearing it on warm days and always get compliments. If you love natural, garden-inspired scents, this one’s a must!” says one shopper. 

If you’re searching for summer in a candle, look no further than this Malin + Goetz gem. Inspired by the founders’ passion for gardening, the candle is chockfull of fresh and earthy notes. The top starts with basil, green ivy, lavender and mint, before the middle notes of tomato, mandarin and petitgrain work its magic. You’ll also find base notes of cedarwood and green pepper. “A fresh unique candle which I love for the kitchen. [It] really makes everything feel ‘clean’ and healthy and fends off any cooking smells that may linger too long. It’s not the immediate fragrance you’d think of buying as they’re usually floral or citrus or whatever. Give it a try—you’ll like it,” writes one fan.